IHSAA - Default
IHSAA Official’s Handbook
Licensing, Policies and Procedures
Foreword
The IHSAA is encouraged by your interest and participation in our licensing program. It is necessary that we provide our member schools with qualified, competent officials.
Each year in Indiana, sports contests become more sophisticated and technical. Officials must continually upgrade their skills in order to keep pace with the high school programs which have directed themselves towards excellence.
Contrary to popular belief, the rules of athletics are difficult to read, understand and interpret. To achieve officiating excellence, an official must combine knowledge of the rules and the game itself with proper officiating mechanics. It is the responsibility of the official to assure each participant in the contest a fair chance to succeed.
Players, coaches and fans expect, and should receive, the best an official can give on every play in every contest. Every official must be secure in his or her knowledge of the playing rules and must be confident in order to implement this knowledge and ability with courage.
Athletic officiating is a vigorous activity and demands that a person is in top physical condition. To maintain credibility throughout a contest, an official must be, as well as appear to be, physically fit.
The IHSAA is aware that most of our licensed officials officiate because of a love for sport and a desire to assist in providing wholesome, worthwhile and healthy activities for the more than 160,000 student athletes in Indiana.
Introduction
An official is required to have an IHSAA license to officiate grades 9 through 12 contests between member schools in baseball, basketball, cross country, football, gymnastics, soccer, softball, swimming, track and field, volleyball and wrestling. Officials should be aware that if they work a contest while not licensed, they are jeopardizing the member school’s membership with the IHSAA. The school responsible for hiring the officials is subject to a penalty as determined by the Commissioner.
Licensing is regulated and controlled by the Executive Committee through the Commissioner.
By-Law Rule 14-3
Officials’ conduct, at all times, shall be such (1) not to reflect discredit upon other officials or the Association and (2) to promote discipline, good order and a sportsmanlike environment.
By-Law Rule 14-4
Official licensure by the IHSAA is a privilege and not a right. All licensed officials, all applicants for licensure, and all applicants for renewal of licensure agree to abide by the policies, purposes, rules and regulations of the IHSAA. Approval of applications for licensure and application for renewal of license shall be at the discretion of the Commissioner and are considered final, binding and not reviewable. The Commissioner may revoke the license of an official for cause which shall include, but not be limited to, the violation of the policies, purposes, rules and regulations of the IHSAA and any conduct, both on or off the field or court which would have a negative or detrimental effect upon the IHSAA, its members, students or the public.
Officials are expected to be of high moral character, unquestionable integrity, and free of racial, religious and personal bias. The Committee may revoke, suspend or refuse the licensing of an official for just cause, e.g. nonpayment of fees, being unfair or biased, improper conduct on or off the field or court, incompetency, failure to wear prescribed uniform, or action detrimental to the welfare of the Association.
History of the IHSAA
“It happened down in Harrison County around 1915, or maybe 1916. My older brother was playing baseball on the local high school team and they had a road game with a rival high school in the next town. When my brother’s team arrived to warm-up for the game, they couldn’t believe what they saw. Pitching and catching for the opponent was the battery for the Louisville Colonels of the American Association. My brother’s coach was so upset, he suited up and played second base himself.”
Phil N. Eskew, IHSAA Commissioner, 1962-1976, from The History of the Indiana High School Athletic Association by Dale Glenn
Before the turn of the 20th century, secondary school administrators in Indiana began to face the problem of controlling the abuses growing out of interscholastic activities, particularly athletics. Contrary to popular belief, these activities were initiated by students themselves in the form of debating societies and student athletic clubs to which many of the elite in society at that time belonged.
Imitating their older “brothers and sisters”, high school students around 1890 began to form their own “athletic association”. They elected their own managers, scheduled their own games, and played the only teams available. Predictably, without supervision, disputes and brawls sometimes occurred. Although the schools had no part in sponsoring these activities and generally resisted them, these student groups were soon to be identified with their high schools and caused considerable embarrassment for them.
As these problems began to manifest themselves on a broader basis, school administrators attempted to outlaw interscholastic athletics. Their positions were influenced by the fact that persons other than students were permitted to play on athletic teams representing the schools. Additionally, many teams were coached by volunteer coaches who had no training as teachers, and many practices borrowed from professional and non-school athletics were considered detrimental to the cause of education.
Eventually, educators had to decide whether athletics should be abolished or controlled. Because of the popularity that had developed for athletic activities, it was the opinion of the majority of school administrators that it would be impossible to abolish them and that control of them would be the only feasible alternative.
The first attempt at such controls took place when schools began to form leagues or conferences and to adopt rules. The first rule on record was that all players must be bona fide students of the school they were representing. Other controls followed and eventually became known as “eligibility rules”.
These early attempts to control abuses, however, were soon proven inadequate because of the fact that not all school administrators and school systems adhered to the controls. Schools in certain geographical areas voluntarily agreed to abide by their agreements, but as communication and transportation improved, schools began to compete in larger areas outside the local conferences. Frequently, these other conferences had a different set of rules. It thus became necessary to have a wider-based agreement that would cover all the schools in the state.
In April of 1903, a group of Indiana high school principals met in Richmond to discuss the organizing of the high schools of the state into a single association for the purpose of controlling athletic activities. The result was a body of suggested rules and regulations called the “Richmond Agreement”. Although there was no central organization having executive power to enforce rules, the way was nevertheless paved for the birth of the Indiana High School Athletic Association before the year was over.
Purpose of the IHSAA
1. It is the purpose of this Association in its program of registering officials to advance the best interest of interscholastic competition by:
a. Aiding officials, coaches and players in acquiring a thorough knowledge of playing rules in all sports.
b. Promoting uniformity in mechanics of officiating.
c. Propagating competent young officials to replace retiring officials.
d. Encouraging observance of the spirit and letter of playing rules and ethical codes on all occasions.
2. A thorough knowledge of playing rules and an ability to interpret these rules shall be regarded by this Association as a primary requirement of all officials. To implement this requirement, this Association conducts rules interpretation meetings in a number of sports. It is imperative that an official attend such meetings in sports in which they are licensed for the purpose of keeping abreast of rule changes and new interpretations as well as general review of all rules and regulations.
3. A thorough knowledge on the part of officials of mechanics of officiating shall be regarded by this Association as imperative for a properly officiated game. The mechanics of the officiating profession are particularly important since officials in certain sports work as members of several different crews during a season, thus requiring mechanics to be standardized in the interest of smooth and efficient performance of duties.
4. Dedication to high professional standards as developed by tradition and through practice shall be regarded by this Association as highly desirable on the part of officials. A proper attitude toward the avocation of officiating will contribute immeasurably toward the total value of the interscholastic program.
Pursuant to the purpose listed above, the IHSAA encourages the formation of local officials’ associations. Individual officials are encouraged to become members of such associations and to take an active role in the association’s programs.
IHSAA Officials’ Ethics, Conduct and Discourse/ Media Policies
Attaining licensure to be an IHSAA official is a privilege, not a right. All officials licensed by the IHSAA are required to conduct themselves, both on and off the court and field, in a manner which promote self-discipline, good order and a sporting like environment, and in a manner which does not reflect discredit upon themselves, upon other officials or upon the IHSAA. To that end, the IHSAA has adopted the following ethics, conduct and discourse/media policies which requires adherence by all IHSAA licensed officials. Note: the National Federation of State High School Associations has adopted a code of ethics for officials and the National Association of Sports Officials Board has adopted a social media guideline for officials; the IHSAA has liberally incorporated much of such code and such guideline into these policies.
Ethics
Officials SHALL:
• exercise a high level of self-discipline, independence and responsibility;
• uphold the honor and dignity of the profession in all interaction with student-athletes, coaches, athletic directors, school administrators, colleagues, and the public;
• uphold the IHSAA By-Laws, rules and policies, being aware that high school officiating involves a public trust;
• not discriminate unfairly by dispensing special favors or privileges to anyone nor accept favors or benefits under circumstances which might be construed by reasonable persons as influencing the performance of one's officiating duties;
• expose corruption and breaches of integrity wherever discovered.
• devote the time, thought, and study to the rules of the game and to the mechanics necessary to apply the rules so that the officiating performance will be carried out in an impartial, firm and controlled manner;
• work with others and the IHSAA in a constructive and cooperative manner;
• prepare themselves both physically and mentally, dress neatly and appropriately, and comport themselves in a manner consistent with the high standards of the profession.
• exercise a high level of integrity when entering into contracts with the IHSAA and IHSAA member schools, and be punctual and professional in the fulfillment of all contractual obligations;
• remain mindful that an Official’s conduct influences the respect that student-athletes, coaches and the public hold for the profession.
• remain aware of the inherent risk of injury that competition poses to student-athletes, and where appropriate, inform event management of conditions or situations that appear unreasonably hazardous.
• take reasonable steps to educate themselves in the recognition of emergency conditions that might arise during the course of competition.
Conduct
Officials SHALL NOT:
• use their position as an IHSAA official for private gain – exclusive of payment for games worked – and shall not seek to influence a coach or administrator for the purpose of promoting personal officiating opportunities;
• give preferential treatment to any school or coach.
• be involved in any action that gives the appearance of a loss of impartiality or neutrality and shall not accept any assignment at a school where the Official graduated, at a school where the Official is employed, had player-coach contact previously with any coach involved, or has a close relative affiliated with the school as a student or an employee;
• make an officiating decision outside of the contest rules or any official IHSAA channel;
• be engaged in criminal, dishonest, notoriously disgraceful or immoral conduct – or any other conduct adversely affecting the confidence of the public or member schools in the integrity of the IHSAA;
• have previously been engaged in conduct which resulted, or could have resulted, in a conviction for an aggravated felony, a sexual crime, a drug-related crime or a crime of moral turpitude;
• engage in any behavior that can be defined as sexual harassment by a reasonable person;
• use any substance prior to officiating a contest that impairs the Official’s physical or mental performance, and on the day of a officiated contest, shall not use alcoholic beverages at all;
• act or speak, during or to/from a contest, in a manner which not above reproach and which does not demonstrate a strong example of sporting conduct, courtesy, and self-control; and
• failure to honor an officiating contract.
Discourse and Media
Officials SHALL
• promote officiating in a positive light, with a general feeling of pride and professionalism;
• recognize and adhere to reasonable restrictions on an Official’s officiating-related communications in all forms of public speech, including social media;
• not criticize or negatively comment about other contest officials, any venue, contest or tournament worker or official or the IHSAA in the presence of coaches, administrators, players, spectators, the public or the media, or through social media, either before, during, or after a contest.
• not communicate specifics about the Official’s assignments, other officials, conferences/schools, coaches, players or any related personnel;
• not engage in specific play and/or ruling evaluation/commentary, whether it is of a contest the Official worked, one that the Official witnessed or in general about the impact of officials in any sporting event;
• communicate among officials for learning purposes, but do so privately and not through the use of social media; Officials should also assume that email and other forms of direct communication can and will be made public, and should communicate accordingly;
• be sparing in the sharing of their personal information, including photos, adjust security settings accordingly and report false profiles or posts to the appropriate authorities/governing bodies in a timely fashion; and
• assume that all social media communications are public at all times, even if created with private intentions, and that social media communication can and will be read by anyone at any time.
IHSAA Licensing Requirements
To obtaining an IHSAA Officiating License the prospective official must:
1. Have graduated from High School
2. Have properly completed an IHSAA application online; See Becoming a New Official below
3. Be in compliance with the IHSAA conviction policy
4. Have successfully passed a criminal background check
5. Have earned at least 75% on the on-line Part I test; See Becoming a New Official below
Becoming a New Official
1. Visit us at: , under the Officials tab to obtain directions regarding registration as a new official
a. The IHSAA offers an annual scholarship program to each of the 24 Officials Associations. Each association receives 10 free licenses to utilize as they feel appropriate for their association. This initiative is coupled with a mentoring program.
b. For Approved College Officiating Classes – the course must be completed in time to take the test online during the testing period.
c. For Approved Adult Education Classes – course work must be completed in a timely fashion to be able to access the online test.
2. Part I test – to earn your license (75% or better)
a. Study the rules book before you take the test.
b. Go to ; enter your user name (email address) and password to access Arbiter.
c. Choose the IHSAA Central Hub view then click on TESTING module on the right side of the screen.
d. Click on the testing Center link located in the center of the screen.
e. Under Open Tests section, click on the test for which you registered.
f. Read the directions given and use the Next tab to move to the next page.
g. You may use the rules book sent to you to take the test.
h. You may open and save the test an unlimited number of times before the closing date of the test.
i. Before submitting the test you may go back and review any of the test questions.
j. Take your time when submitting your test answers.
k. Once the test is submitted, you are finished.
l. You will receive immediate feedback on the result.
m. It will be another 2-3 weeks before you will receive your insignia and license card from IHSAA.
n. 75% or better on the test will earn you your license.
o. If your test score is 74% or lower you may register April 1 or later of the following year to repeat the registration process.
NOW THAT I HAVE PASSED THE TEST, WHAT DO I DO?
HOW TO ACCESS ARBITER
1. Review and update your Arbiter account
o Navigate to using your internet browser and click the "Sign In" link.
o Sign in with your e-mail address as your User Name and your last name (in lower case) as the password. If you are currently an Arbiter user, you may continue to use your existing password.
o The first time you sign in you must (a) accept the Terms and Conditions and (b) change your password.
o Verify that your contact information is correct by clicking on the Information link.
o Update your calendar by clicking on the “Calendar” link and blocking days/times that you are unavailable.
Here’s a brief outline of how the Arbiter will work for officials…
A. When a school or assigner attempts to schedule you for a game, you will receive a notification email. Then it's up to you to accept or decline games. To do this, you must sign into Arbiter and view your game schedule. On the right side of your game schedule, you will see accept and decline check boxes. Once you are finished marking the games, be sure to click the Submit button to submit the changes and have the games accepted or declined.
B. You will normally have four days to accept the game contract. If you decide to accept the game, your schedule will automatically be updated and the school/assigner’s schedule will be updated as well. You will also be required to complete an electronic contract. If you decline the game, an e-mail will be sent to the school/assigner.
C. You will receive an e-mail reminder several days before your scheduled event.
D. You will only be requested for days/times that are shown as available on your calendar. Therefore it is important that you keep your calendar current.
It is extremely important that you become involved and place your officiating schedule on the calendar within Arbiter. As you complete this task, you can identify any additional dates on which you do not want to be requested to work a contest by “blocking” those dates. It will be an expectation that you regularly, preferably daily, check your emails. Once you accept a game on a particular date and time, that time on your schedule will be permanently blocked and you will no longer be able to accept another game at the same time. Note: It is possible to accept an afternoon game at one site and then accept a game that evening at a different site.
2. Review the IHSAA Officials Handbook On-line at the IHSAA CENTRAL HUB in Arbiter; click on “switch views” in the upper menu bar and choose the IHSAA CENTRAL HUB and click on Publications. Read this book from cover to cover. Many questions that come to mind will be answered in this Handbook.
3. Join a Local Officials Association. A listing of the secretaries and presidents of the 24 officials’ associations is posted on the Officials Association Info page on the IHSAA CENTRAL HUB.
4. Take advantage of resources
o Rules Books, Case Books and Officials Manuals for the sport– read and study these publications thoroughly.
o Observe veteran officials work and learn from them.
o Request a mentor to work with you to observe, give you feedback and to answer questions; accept constructive criticism as a method of educating yourself.
o Take advantage of any opportunity to work…free or paid. Work lower level contests to get the feel of blowing the whistle and positioning on the competition floor or field.
o Attend meetings with the association.
o Review film of yourself working or of others.
o Consult the NFHS Central Hub through your Arbiter account by going to “Switch Views” and clicking on that option; browse through the different pieces of information found there.
o Attend Clinics, when possible.
o Ask questions.
5. HAVE A GREAT SEASON!
(Scheduling/Contracting Component & IHSAA Central Hub)
The Indiana High School Athletic Association has entered into a partnership with ArbiterSports (). This partnership has enabled the IHSAA to better serve the licensed officials and the member schools by:
1. Providing a complete database of officials, with day-to-day updates, immediately to athletic administrators;
2. Establishing a personal profile for each official licensed through the IHSAA;
3. Providing access to post-season assignments through the use of ArbiterSports;
4. Establishing a protocol for the use of the on-line contracts between schools and officials and between competing;
5. Providing an avenue for athletic directors to better perform the task of hiring officials;
6. Providing an opportunity for our officials’ associations to create their own group within Arbiter to track members, meeting attendance, association announcements, etc.
Each licensed official will need to have access to an email account and the account address will need to be shared with the IHSAA through the profile page. The IHSAA will be able to use the emails of its licensed officials to better communicate on-going issues. Officials can expect to be able to:
1. View your own personal profile whenever necessary;
2. Maintain the demographic information on your personal profile, update address, telephone numbers, email address, etc.
3. Maintain your sports schedule to make yourself available to athletic administrators or assigners for scheduling.
The use of email plays a major role in establishing direct communications with officials. Access to an email account is essential for officials to stay up-to-date with the IHSAA and services to officials.
Free Email Services
If you are interested in a free email account, here are some options:
1. AIM Mail – AOL’s free web-based email service, provides plenty of online storage, very good spam protection and a rich, easy to use interface.
Web Site:
2. Yahoo Mail – Yahoo provides reliable and secure email service with unlimited storage. A pretty good spam filter eliminates most spam.
Web Site:
3. Gmail – Gmail is the Google approach to email and chat, which has practically unlimited free online storage.
Web Site:
Accepting Games with Schools
There are certain factors which could make a particular official inappropriate for a specific contest.
A number of reports have been received in the Association Office that officials have been hired who have a more than casual relationship with either one of the schools or one of the coaches involved in the contest. It is difficult to identify all of the areas an official should consider when accepting contracts, but among them are:
1. Current member of the faculty of either school involved;
2. Recent member of the faculty of either school;
3. A relative on either team;
4. Close personal friend of either coach;
5. Citizen of either community involved;
6. Conflict with the coach or other sport personnel.
This is but a partial list of the type of considerations that should be given when accepting a contract as an official. All of the items listed above have been identified as violations of good working practices which have occurred recently in contests.
The person doing the hiring, as well as the individual being hired, should consider such matters before extending or accepting a contract. It is easy to assume before the contest that no problems will arise because of these kinds of relationships. Frequently, however, the contest becomes close or tense and in such cases, it is almost impossible for all parties to ignore those close relationships. Accusations about the judgment used by the person doing the hiring, as well as the person who was hired, and about the honesty of all parties involved are frequently the outcome.
Contest Assignments, Contracts and Fees
Independent Contractor Status: IHSAA licensed officials are considered independent contractors and not employees of the IHSAA or member schools. As independent contractors, the official is entitled to remunerations for services rendered, but has no entitlements which may be available to an employee of the IHSAA or member schools.
Some schools are using assigners to assist with the process of hiring officials for contests at their schools. A list of Approved Assigners, the sports in which they assign and the geographical area in which they live is provided on the IHSAA Central Hub under assigners.
Contracts: The IHSAA strongly encourages all officials to enter into contractual agreements for all contests. Do not rely on verbal agreements for any contests. Although assignments may come from another source, contracts should be made with member schools. IHSAA member schools are mandated to enact contracts with contest officials.
Regular Season Assignments: Regular season contests may be assigned from school personnel, local associations or a conference/school assigner. Any concerns or suggestions regarding these assignments should be directed to the assigning source or the member school.
Fees: Fees are determined locally. The IHSAA only establishes fees for the contests in the IHSAA State Tournament Series.
It is important for the integrity and advancement of the officiating profession that only IHSAA-licensed officials work the contests of IHSAA member schools. If you are aware that an IHSAA member school is hiring officials that are not licensed by the IHSAA or that an assigner is assigning officials who are not licensed by the IHSAA, please inform the IHSAA Officials Department. The IHSAA will investigate these allegations with your name remaining anonymous. The IHSAA By-Laws mandate that member schools hire only IHSAA licensed officials.
Each official is responsible for verifying contests with the home school. Officials should never double book contests.
Officials Breaking Contracts
A small minority of IHSAA licensed officials are guilty of breaking contracts with member schools. IHSAA Executive Committee policy as it relates to officials’ contracts states the following:
1. That in case of failure on the part of either one of the contracting parties to fulfill the terms of this contract, except by mutual consent, a forfeiture fee equal to the contractual fee (listed in the above payment column) shall be paid by the offending party to the other party within ten (10) days after the date set for each game in this contract. It is understood that there is a moral obligation as well as a contractual obligation to be considered in the making and breaking of contracts. Where obligations are not mutually adjusted, the IHSAA reserves the right to review the facts and determine what these adjustments should be.
2. Member schools are to report to the IHSAA within ten (10) days any official who fails to honor contractual agreements. Also, include the reason given, if known. Notification is not required when both parties mutually agree to terminate the contract.
If an administration releases an official from his/her contract because of an important business commitment, sickness, death, accident, or other apparent valid reason and subsequently an administrator discovers that said official has worked another contest for another member school or college on the date the official was released, said official will be required to honor the contract by paying the contractual amount for the original contest. All contracts are made in good faith and should be carried out in the same manner. There are many times through a cancellation or mistake that contracts must be altered. Such alterations are understandable, but when questionable integrity and honesty are involved, then a serious situation might develop. The above applies to all levels of competition.
Officials and IHSAA By-Laws
Game officials should not respond to questions pertaining to IHSAA By-Laws. Such should be directed to the respective high school principal, athletic director or assistant athletic director.
Example:
Q. How many innings may a pitcher pitch in a given time period?
Q. May the same player be used in more than one basketball game during the same evening or session?
Q. How many halves may a soccer player play during a day?
Erroneous information, no matter how well intentioned, can be costly to a coach, player or school.
It is the responsibility of the game official to conduct the contest according to the playing rules and standards set forth in the current official rules publications of the National Federation of State High School Associations and the modifications so listed by the Indiana High School Athletic Association.
The responsibility of interpreting IHSAA By-Laws rests solely with the Commissioner and his staff as so charged by the Executive Committee of the IHSAA.
IHSAA Central Hub
In addition to the scheduling and game contracting component of ArbiterSports (Arbiter One), the IHSAA has also developed a Central Hub for all officials. This Central Hub provides all the information an official will need in order to: Register/Renew a license, stay current with important dates, access to the Part I and Part II NFHS tests, tournament application, sportsmanship link, official’s handbook, and more. Take a moment to visit the Central Hub and become familiar with the information provided within each tab. A snapshot of the Central Hub is below. To follow are several descriptions of the information contained within several of the tabs.
[pic]
On-line License Renewal/Registration: [pic]
• April 1 to May 31 – $67.00 (online) for up to three sports. $8.00 for each additional sport
• June 1 to June 30 - $67.00 (online) for up to three sports. $8.00 for each additional sport. $50.00 Late Fee
• July 1 to May 31 – $67.00 (online) for up to three sports. $8.00 for each additional sport. $100.00 Late Fee
• New officials may register at a rate of $50 for up to three sports at any point within the April 1-March 31 window.
Official licensure by the IHSAA is a privilege and not a right. All licensed officials, all applicants for licensure and all applicants for renewal of licensure agree to abide by the policies, purposes, rules and regulations of the IHSAA. Approval of applications for licensure and application for renewal of license shall be at the discretion of the Commissioner.
The Commissioner may revoke the license of an official for cause which shall include, but not be limited to, the violation of the policies, purposes, rules and regulations of the IHSAA and any conduct, both on or off the field or court which would have a negative or detrimental effect upon the IHSAA, its members, students or the public.
To Add a Sport
Indicate on your renewal the sport/s to be added.
Complete the process as if you are renewing your official’s license for a season and simply choose the sport you wish to add from the appropriate screen. Rule books will be mailed (when available) upon receipt of fee.
Reciprocity
Currently licensed officials from out-of-state may apply for an IHSAA license to cover only those same sport(s) for which they hold a license in another state and by which they gained the license through taking the NFHS test offered by the other state:
1. Call the IHSAA or email Craig Garvin at cgarvin@ for a copy of the application.
2. Return application with a photo static copy of present license (must be current) as evidence of status and sport/s in which licensed.
3. Submit above with a check made payable to IHSAA for $50.00 licensing fee.
4. If the above criteria are met, license will be issued in the sport/s in which out-of-state rating is held. No examination will be required.
5. Reciprocity as it applies to years of experience, current year rules interpretation meeting, and tournament experience will be honored.
NOTE: Reciprocity applies only to those persons who have recently established residency in Indiana and persons residing in states which border Indiana.
Non-Renewal of License
An official who works without benefit of proper renewal of an officiating license will suffer the following consequences:
• The hiring school involved remit payment of $500 to the IHSAA Scholarship Fund (currently covered in the IHSAA By-laws).
• The official involved may not renew the license for the current year (violation) and at the discretion of the IHSAA commissioner may be suspended for the following year as well.
• The official must return any contract fees to the hiring school.
Renewal
Renewal will be permitted only if license has lapsed for one year. The renewal fee will be accepted ONLY from April 1 to May 31. See late renewal policy for reinstating after May 31.
EXAMPLE: 2011-2012 licensed
2012-2013 lapsed (did not renew)
2013-2014 must reinstate
2014-2015 must retest
Questions and Answers
Q 1. I know someone who would like to become a licensed official. What is the process?
A. Go to then to Officials. Follow the directions to complete the process.
Q 2. I am already an IHSAA licensed official in one sport, how do I add another sport?
A. You should indicate the sport(s) that you wish to add during the renewal process on Arbiter.
Q 3. Must I renew my license every year?
A. An IHSAA official’s license expires May 31 of every year regardless of when it becomes effective. The period of time between April 1 and May 31 is the renewal period. Renewals after May 31 are considered to be late and the licensee will incur a late fee upon renewal, $50 late fee above the renewal fee in June and $100.00 above the renewal fee in July and thereafter.
Q 4. When are renewal forms mailed?
A. Renewals forms are not mailed. Each official is sent an email indicating the time for renewal. Each official is held responsible for renewing on time regardless of when the renewal notification is received.
Q 5. What should I do if I do not receive my renewal notification?
A. If you do not receive a renewal notification by April 15, go to the IHSAA Central Hub, choose the Registration Tab and follow the prompts.
Q 6. Can I be inactive in a sport?
A. No, the IHSAA no longer recognizes the inactive status.
Q 7. Is it mandatory to attend a rules meeting?
A. Yes. You must “attend” a rules interpretation meeting every year in every sport in which you are licensed.
Q 8. Is it mandatory to take the rules exam every year?
A. You must take Part II of the exam if you are applying to enter the tournament series in a sport. You must take Part II of the exam in a sport if you are applying to change license status from registered to certified or if you want to maintain your certified status.
Q 9. Can I get credit for attendance at a rules meeting in another state?
A. No, all officials wishing to apply for tournament work must complete the online Rules Interpretation meeting prior to the season. Should an official change residencies during the season, verification may be made with the sending state office regarding attendance at the sending state’s rules meeting.
Q10. Can I attend a clinic in another state and get credit in Indiana for that attendance?
A. No, you are required to attend a clinic sponsored by the IHSAA.
Q11. Can I attend a sports meeting at another association and have it count as one of my mandatory attendance dates.
A. Yes you may attend a sports meeting at another association. Your attendance will be confirmed as a “guest” by the association officers at which meeting you attended.
Revocation
Officials are expected to be of high moral character, unquestionable integrity, free of racial, religious and personal bias. The Commissioner and Executive Committee may revoke, suspend or refuse the licensing of an official for just cause, e.g., non-payment of fees, being unfair or biased, improper conduct on or off the field or court, incompetence, failure to wear prescribed uniform, action detrimental to the welfare of the IHSAA. This list is not intended to be an exhausted list of causes.
The Commissioner may revoke the license of an official for cause which shall include, but not be limited to, the violation of policies, purposes, rules and regulations of the IHSAA and any conduct, both on or off the field or court, which would have a negative or detrimental effect upon the IHSAA, its members, students or the public.
On-line Testing: [pic]
Officials are able to access directions regarding the testing process from , under the IHSAA Central Hub on the testing tab. Individuals seeking to become an official must have an email address. The Part I test (for new officials) and Part II test (for experienced officials) will be given online. No longer will the IHSAA time or monitor tests. All testing date windows will be posted under the testing tab on the Central Hub.
On-Line Rules Meetings: [pic]
Each year the IHSAA conducts rules meetings in each of the sports offered. The primary purpose of these meetings is to provide a correct understanding of the current rule changes, along with accepted interpretations of those changes. Another purpose of the meetings is the discussion of problem areas from last year as well as the discussion of modifications or situations unique to Indiana. Rules Meetings in each sport will be conducted online through a power point presentation. A list of these meetings is available on the IHSAA Central Hub under the rules meeting tab.
These meetings are expressly for head coaches and officials. Head coaches and officials are mandated by the IHSAA to attend, for it is the responsibility of each coach to teach players to play in accordance with the rules and interpretations. It is imperative that officials attend these meetings, for it is the responsibility of the official to administer rules as written and interpreted.
Officials who do not attend rules meetings will not qualify to work the IHSAA post-season tournament.
Schools are required to have the head coach attend the online rules interpretation meeting or be assessed a fine of $50.00. The fine must be paid prior to the submission of the entry form for the IHSAA post-season tournament.
IHSAA Policy - Mandatory Rules Meetings
The IHSAA Executive Committee at its June 12, 1987 meeting established that the IHSAA licensed officials in all sports are mandated to attend an IHSAA Rules Interpretation Meeting in the sport/s in which he/she is licensed.
A thorough knowledge of the playing rules and the ability to interpret these rules is regarded by the IHSAA as a primary requirement of all officials. The IHSAA conducts area rules meetings in all sports in which officials are licensed. It is the responsibility of an official to attend such meetings for the purpose of keeping informed of rules and regulations. In addition, a thorough knowledge of the mechanics of officiating is imperative for a completely officiated contest. The mechanics of the officiating profession are particularly important since officials in certain sports work as members of crews or teams, thus requiring mechanics to be standardized for effective communication as well as in the interest of efficient performance of duties.
Note: Officials requesting certification and/or tournament assignment must attend a rules meeting in that sport to be considered for assignment and to maintain each year the certification classification. A score of 90% on the certification and/or tournament test is required.
2017-2018 Rules Interpretation Meeting Dates – Online meeting windows
The Online Meetings will be available during the period of time indicated for that sport.
A face-to-face rules interpretation session (if offered) in conjunction with a coach’s association meeting is an alternative to the Online Rules Meetings.
FALL SPORTS
Football July 25 - August 14
Girls Golf July 10 – July 31
Soccer July 24 - August 14
Boys Tennis July 24 - August 14
Volleyball July 25 - August 14
[pic]
WINTER SPORTS
Basketball Oct. 16 - Nov. 20
Gymnastics Oct. 16 – Jan. 8
Swimming & Diving Oct. 16 - Nov. 20
Wrestling Oct. 24 - Nov. 14
[pic]
SPRING SPORTS
Baseball Feb. 26 - March 26
Boys Golf Feb. 26 - March 26
Softball Feb. 19 - March 19
Girls Tennis Feb. 26 - March 26
Track & Field Feb. 5 - Feb. 26
Rule Books: [pic] & [pic]
NFHS Rule Book Distribution Policy
Beginning with the 2010-11 school year, the Indiana High School Athletic Association will provide all National Federation rules publications to its member schools and licensed officials on an alternate-year basis rather than annually as in previous years. The increasing cost to purchase and ship rules books that contain few significant changes year after year is the impetus for a change in policy. All officials and schools will be provided summaries of changes online, in print and at rules meetings during the off-years.
While new officials (those registering for the first time) will receive all rules books and case books in their registered sports, renewing officials will receive books as dictated by the schedule detailed below. In the “off years” when publications are not purchased, the IHSAA will provide the previous year’s rules book to new officials. All publications may be accessed via the Central Hub under the “Rule Book Purchase” tab.
The following chart represents the distribution plan for NFHS rules books by the IHSAA:
|2015 - 16 |2016 - 17 |2017 - 18 |2018 - 19 |
|Football (R, C, M) |Football (R, C, M) |Volleyball (R, C) |Football (R, C, M) |
|Volleyball (R, C) |Soccer (R, C) |Basketball (R, C, M) |Soccer (R, C) |
|Basketball (M) |Basketball (R, C) |Swim and Diving |Gymnastics |
|Swim and Diving |Gymnastics |Wrestling (R, C) |Track and Field (R, C, M) |
|Wrestling |Track and Field (R, C, M) |Softball (R, C, M) |Baseball (R, C, M) |
|Baseball (R, C) |Baseball (R, C, M) | | |
|Softball (R, C, M) | | | |
|B Golf (link offered online) | G Tennis ((link offered online)) |B Golf ((link offered online)) |G Tennis ((link offered online)) |
|B Tennis ((link offered online)) |G Golf ((link offered online)) |B Tennis ((link offered online)) |G Golf ((link offered online)) |
Rules Book (R), Case Book (C), Umpires Manual (M)
NOTE: The Golf Rules Book is a multiple-year book (2012-2015 and 2016-19) based on the calendar. The Tennis Rules Book is a calendar year rules book, published in January.
Additional NFHS Rule Books may be purchased at the time of registration/renewal of license, through the IHSAA Store, via our public web site at . A link to the publications page of the e-commerce store is displayed below:
NFHS rules books are priced at $7.20 per book. Shipping is $2.00 per book purchased. If you have specific questions, please contact the IHSAA at 317-846-6601.
Certification Clinics: [pic]
Certification clinics for our officials in all 16 sports will be offered every year. The requirement to remain a “certified” official will remain an every other year obligation. Visit the Central Hub under the “Clinics” tab to register for any clinic.
Official’s Education: [pic] & [pic]
The day you stop learning as an official is the day you start to deteriorate. High school sports programs in the State of Indiana are improving every year, and it is part of the job of the officials to grow with the games. Always remember that in order to improve you have to be open to constructive criticism from others. Use each contest as a learning experience. Observing the work of other officials, working games at all levels, asking for feedback from peers, watching film, reading the rules several times and discussing with others, practicing signals in the mirror are a few methods of improvement. Improvement takes a concentrated effort. You do not improve by saying I want to get better. You need to plan for that improvement. Even the “best” officials have room for improvement.
On-line courses are offered for each of our sports and can be accessed via the Central Hub under the “Online officials Assoc. Mtgs.” tab.
Here are some tips for both new and experiences officials on how to keep sharp and ahead of the game.
1. KNOW THE RULES in order to avoid problems.
a. Review the rules book and note the changes
b. Converse with other, more experienced, officials about the rules or game situations.
c. Observe other officials work. Watch your counterparts during contests paying specific attention to his/her rule application, positioning, and mechanics.
2. Do not pass up the opportunity to work scrimmages or inter-squad events. These provide invaluable experiences and a great pre-season warm-up.
3. MECHANICS AND POSITIONING are an extremely important dimension to officiating any sport.
a. Be in the right place at the right time. Try not to put yourself in a situation where it is difficult to make the best call because you are not hustling, and as a result are out of position.
b. If you are working with a partner(s), always be aware of where your partner(s) is and what area is being covered by the partner(s).
c. Be vocal and confident when making a call. Proper mechanics not only look cleaner, but increase the credibility of the official.
d. Attending Officials Clinics is a great way to find the areas in which you can improve in order to be a better official.
4. Physical fitness
a. It is strongly recommended by the IHSAA that all member officials submit themselves to a thorough physical examination by a competent before undertaking his/her officiating duties.
b. Officials need to meet the physical demands of the job, this means conditioning is necessary before the season begins. Physical fitness is proven preventative medicine.
5. Pre-game Preparation
a. Like an athlete, an official must have some kind of pre-game warm-up to allow the body time to physically adjust to the start of the contest and its stresses.
b. Pre-game should be used to put you into the mental aspect of the contest. Prepare yourself for what will happen, what could happen and what has happened before. Focus is essential.
c. Pre-game should also be used to communicate with your partner(s). It is imperative that you communicate when working with a partner. A discussion in the locker-room about positioning in different situations, movement on the playing field/court, etc. is absolutely necessary for continuity. Communication makes for a smoother contest.
6. Goal Setting
Setting attainable goals for each season is a way to focus on working hard to be the best official that you can possibly be.
Official’s Uniforms: [pic]
Appearance should be of prime importance to all officials. There is no substitute for neat and clean. In certain sports, officials may dress at the contest site. Officials should be neatly dressed. A professionally attired official will receive respect. Uniforms as prescribed in the rule publication in each sport shall be worn by IHSAA officials. All of the vendors and apparel can be found on the IHSAA Central Hub under the “Uniforms” tab.
Insignia
1. The IHSAA supplies all member officials with identifying IHSAA insignia. The IHSAA requires that all officials wear the current insignia firmly attached to the left shoulder shirt sleeve, approximately one and one half inch below the shoulder seam of the sleeve. The insignia may also be worn on the left front chest of the uniform. No other insignia should be worn on the uniform while working high school athletic events.
a. Track officials should attach insignia to starter’s sleeve.
b. Gymnastics judges should attach insignia to an elastic band which is to be worn while working contests.
2. Three IHSAA insignia are provided each year. Additional patches are available to the member official for $1.00 each. These additional insignias may be ordered during renewal/registration of your license or through the same link used to renew your license.
3. Professional Insignia should be worn on the left sleeve above the required IHSAA insignia.
a. Should only be worn when working the sport for which it was awarded
b. Should only be worn if the status has been earned and maintained.
4. Local Association Insignia and National Federation of Officials Association insignia are to be worn ONLY on the jacket.
5. The American flag may be attached to the right sleeve of the official’s shirt. It should be attached to the right shoulder shirt sleeve, approximately one and one half inch below the shoulder seam of the sleeve. The American flag shall not exceed 2 x 3 inches in size.
6. No other insignias and patches should be worn on the contest shirt.
Exception: Memorial patches - permission must be granted from the officials’ department of the IHSAA; permission will be granted for a short period of time.
SPECIFIC REQUIRED UNIFORM FOR EACH SPORT:
Baseball
1. Gray pants.
2. Navy blue coat/jacket/sweater.
3. Pullover navy blue shirt with red, navy and white neck and sleeve trim (major league umpire shirt).
4. Navy OR RED undershirt, if worn
5. Navy blue wind breaker or navy blue pullover jacket (pro-style with half zipper) with red and white trim across the shoulders with IHSAA logo (may be purchased at Honig’s); transition to this jacket by 2013. All new officials will need to purchase this jacket. The previous used jacket will be grand-fathered in for experienced officials.
6. Navy blue or black socks.
7. Black belt if applicable.
8. Proper navy blue umpire’s cap. Cap of plate umpire should have a 1 1/2” or 2 1/8” visor. Cap of base umpire should have 2 1/2” or 3” visor. A cap with the IHSAA logo is permissible (may be purchased at Honig’s or Main Event).
9. Black polished shoes. The shoes of the plate umpire should be of the safety variety. The base umpire should wear the ripple or studded style soles.
10. Plate umpire needs:
a. Ball and strike indicator
b. Small whisk broom
c. Protective supporter and cup
d. Properly regulated watch
e. Chest protector
f. Sturdy mask
g. Shin guards
h. Gray ball bag
11. There shall be no numbers worn on any part of the uniform.
12. The IHSAA insignia shall be properly worn at all times.
Basketball (Men and Women)
1. Standard black and white vertically striped (1 inch) knit shirt
a. Short sleeves (approximately 8 inches in length) with black cuffs
b. V-neck shirt shall be worn and no undershirt shall be visible (the shirt with the solid panels down the sides is not acceptable)
c. If an undershirt is worn and it is visible, it shall be black.
d. Worn inside pants
2. Black pants.
3. Belt - shall be entirely black.
4. Jackets - shall be entirely black; recommended for wear prior to the game.
5. Shoes - entirely black with black laces
6. Whistle - black lanyard - (A second whistle should be carried for emergency.)
7. The IHSAA insignia shall be properly worn at all times.
Football
1. Black and white vertically striped, long or short-sleeved knit shirt. The shirt shall have 2 ¼” inch stripes, black knit cuffs and Byron collar. (Beginning the 2017 season, the 2 ¼” stripe shirt will be required. During the 2017 State Tournament series, officials will wear ONLY the 2 ¼” stripe). All officials in a given game are to wear the same type shirt with respect to long sleeve, short sleeve, or inclement weather shirt/jacket.
2. Black football pants that include a single 1 ¼” white vertical stripe running from waist to cuff. The game official must wear black socks.
3. Black football shoes with black shoelaces are required. Shoes should be shined before each game.
4. Black baseball cap with white piping is required. For the purpose of identification, the referee shall wear a solid white baseball-style cap.
5. Black leather belt 1 1/4 to 2 inches wide with a plain buckle.
6. Black jacket (not to be worn during the game).
7. The uniforms should fit properly and be clean and neat. Shoes should be shined before each game.
8. Effective August 2016
a. All members of the crew must be attired identically regardless of their choice of uniform with the exception of the referee wearing a white baseball-style cap.
b. Optional- Crews may wear the Black and White vertically striped shirt with 2” stripes. Both Long sleeves and short sleeves are permissible. These options are available during the regular season only.
9. The IHSAA insignia shall be properly worn at all times.
10. All officials must have the proper equipment; essentials are a whistle, penalty marker, blue or white bean bag (all crew members must have the same color bean bag) to mark non-penalty spots, game card, pencil and rubber bands or some device to keep track of the down number. The penalty marker shall be a light gold flag (15 inches x 15 inches) with a middle pouch weighted with sand or beans, etc. The linesman shall furnish a clipping device for use in measuring first downs.
11. Inclement weather gear may include a black and white vertically striped jacket with black knit cuffs. All crew members must wear the same type of inclement weather gear.
12. Effective August 2016 – Crews are permitted to use electronic communication devices during contests. The devices must be on a dedicated frequency so as not to be monitored by any persons other than those designated by the crew.
Soccer (Men and Women)
1. Effective August 2017, the New 9170/9171 USSF or pro jerseys may be worn. Yellow, Red, and Green jerseys shall be worn for high school contests. Phasing out over the next two years will be the Gold, Red, Blue, Black, or Green USSF Economy uniform shirts. During the State Tournament series, the new 2016 USSF yellow uniform jerseys will be worn.
2. Black shorts, long black pants (in extreme cold weather with all officials dressing the same)
3. Black shoes, black stockings with white stripes.
4. Two whistles, yellow card, red card, stopwatch, flipping coin, pencil and scorecard.
5. Solid black cap (in inclement weather).
6. Appropriate gear for inclement weather to be worn under the regular uniform.
7. The IHSAA insignia shall be properly sewn (or Velcro) onto the left front chest of the uniform shirt or left sleeve.
Softball (Men and Women)
1. Navy blue pants.
2. Pullover powder blue shirt, white and navy trim at the neck and sleeve.
3. White undershirt if worn, may be short or long sleeve.
4. Navy blue pullover jacket (pro-style with zipper with light blue and white trim across the shoulders with IHSAA logo)
5. Black or navy socks.
6. Plain navy ball bag.
7. Black leather belt with small buckle.
8. Solid black polished shoes with black laces. The shoes of the plate umpire should be of the safety variety. The base umpire should wear the ripple or studded style soles.
9. Navy blue cap with the IHSAA logo.
10. Plate umpire needs:
a. Ball and strike indicator.
b. Small plate brush (to be kept in the ball bag).
c. Chest protector
d. Protective supporter and cup for men
e. Sturdy mask with a commercially manufactured throat protector that is attached and unaltered
f. Shin guards
11. The current IHSAA patch shall be properly worn at all times.
Swimming and Diving (Men and Women)
1. Navy blue slacks or shorts (no jeans or cargo pants).
2. Navy blue or black belt.
3. White polo shirt with IHSAA logo
4. White tennis shoes and white socks.
5. The current IHSAA patch shall be properly worn at all times.
Track and Field (Men and Women)
1. Red polo shirt (warm weather) with IHSAA insignia. Red shirt may be ordered from Main Event
2. Red jacket (cool weather).
3. Yellow, red or orange starter sleeve with IHSAA insignia attached.
4. Solid colored pants (khaki preferred).
5. The IHSAA insignia shall be properly worn at all times.
Volleyball (Men and Women)
1. White polo shirt with IHSAA logo.
a. Permitted: Solid white (short or long sleeve) undershirt
2. Black pants.
3. Solid black shoes with black shoelaces, all black socks.
4. Belt - should be entirely black.
5. Jacket should be entirely black.
6. Whistle should have a neck cord and should be such that it may be heard. (A second whistle should be carried for emergency.)
7. The current IHSAA patch shall be properly worn at all times.
Wrestling
1. Standard gray short-sleeved knit shirt with black pinstripes. Referees may also wear event-provided shirts common to all referees at that event. At any event with more than one referee, ALL referees at that event must wear the same shirt.
2. Black full-length pants and black belt.
3. Black gym shoes without colored highlights and socks.
4. Coin, colored disc, a kit to conduct the random draw, and a whistle.
5. Red and green armbands.
6. The IHSAA insignia shall be properly worn at all times.
NOTE: It is recommended the referee have his hair cut in the traditional manner, his sideburns well-trimmed and his face free of a full beard. If a mustache is worn, it is to be suitably trimmed. It is unrealistic for the rules to require competitors to be well groomed and clean-shaven within certain limitations and then permit officials to appear less than what is deemed appropriate.
IHSAA Authorized Vendors for Officials Apparel
The use of the IHSAA copyrighted logo is illegal without permission from the IHSAA.
|IHSAA |MAIN EVENT |
|Certified Vendors |Indianapolis |
| |317-570-8900 |
| | |
| | |
| |[pic] |
|HONIG’S |PURCHASE OFFICIALS |
|Michigan |Ohio |
|800-468-3284 |800-767-2233 |
| | |
|[pic] | |
| |[pic] |
Tournament Central: [pic]
For all officials applying to work into the tournament series, you must become familiar with the Tournament Central Tab. Within this area you will:
• Apply for the Tournament in your sport;
• View / Update your tournament application;
• Review the Official’s Rating System for Tournament assignments
Classification and Tournament Advancement
The IHSAA recognizes three categories of officials:
A. Registered
1. An official who has been licensed less than two years, or;
2. An official who has been licensed more than two years and did not apply for the change in license status or who did not take the certification test or attend a rules meeting or practical clinic in that sport or who did not meet the requirements to move to the next level.
B. Certified (to work the Tournament Series)
1. An official who has been licensed two or more years;
2. Is a member of a local official’s association.
3. Who has scored 90% or above on the most recent certification (Part II) test;
4. Who has attended IHSAA rules meetings in that sport in the current year and;
5. Who has attended the certification clinic in that sport either the current year or the previous year.
C. Professional
1. A certified official;
2. Assigned to work 3 or more tournaments in that IHSAA sport;
3. Is an active, participating member in one of the 24 IHSAA recognized officials’ associations and is recommended for this classification in that sport by the local association in which he/she participates;
4. To be recommended, the official must also meet three of the following guidelines:
a. Be an officer in the association
b. IHSAA-approved rules interpreter
c. IHSAA-approved clinician
d. Be a sports chairperson and conduct association meetings in that sport
e. Regularly and actively mentor younger or new officials
f. Regular and consistent attendance at meetings for that sport
Tournament Assignments
Officials interested in being considered for assignment to IHSAA Tournaments must go to their Arbiter account and use the link provided to complete the online application process.
Deadlines for each sport are posted on this page:
Process Followed
1. The application process will be made available through Arbiter. Check the Tournament Central section in the IHSAA Central Hub for directions.
2. Information will be emailed to applicants taking the Part II of the test in the appropriate sport. Tests can only be taken online.
3. Upon return of application, the following are evaluated or verified: applicant’s license, Part II test results, school ratings, attendance at rules meetings, attendance at clinic, certification status, membership in an approved local officials’ association, quality of varsity schedule, years as an IHSAA official, tournament experience and geographic location in the state of Indiana.
4. Schools are allowed to vote for all applicants in each specific sport.
5. Assignments of officials are made. This process is very tedious due to the many variables that must be considered such as: computation of pre-tournament vote, tests graded, distance to tourney site, avoidance of assigning officials to sites which may involve a home team, relatives on teams, etc. Member schools are also cross checked with tourney assignments to avoid possible conflicts.
6. Notification of assignment or lack of assignment is made to the officials via Arbiter.
7. An emergency list is prepared when there is a surplus of qualified applicants.
8. Once the sectional assignments are made, officials are determined for the next round of competition. Advanced assignments are made specifically on certification status, tourney experience and ratings.
9. Out-of-state officials will be considered for tournament assignments only when:
a) They are members of an Indiana officials’ association.
b) 75% of their officiating schedule is with Indiana schools.
In order to be considered for tournament assignments, it is mandatory that officials join one of the 24 local officials’ associations around the state. The primary purposes of the associations are recruiting, training, mentoring and retaining officials.
An online survey is the vehicle used to obtain the ratings for officials from the schools. The athletic director is expected to share the list of names with the appropriate coach and then enter the rating for each official. The list will contain the names of all applicants for that specific tournament series. The athletic director is responsible for returning the rated list to the IHSAA office. Coaches are not allowed to scratch officials unless there is a conflict of interest such as employment of self or other family members, child attends the school, graduated from the school or lives in the community. These same areas are used by officials to indicate conflict of interests. No other criterion is used to eliminate officials from assignment at a particular site. The school that fails to submit a rating sheet will not be allowed to enter the appropriate tournament series without paying a $100.00 fine.
Association Membership -- Mandatory
Applicants for these tournament series must have membership in an approved official association to be considered for assignment in the tournament:
Baseball
Basketball
Softball
Volleyball
Applicants for these tournament series must have membership in an approved official association to advance in the tournament:
Cross Country
Football
Soccer
Swimming
Track
Wrestling
Gymnastics
Mandatory Criminal Background Check
Each person applying to become a licensed official in the state of Indiana for the first time must clear a criminal background check prior to obtaining a license. The applicant will be made aware of negative background check results. If the information provided by the search is disputed, that person will be given the opportunity to go through a Dispute Resolution process. The results of the Resolution process will determine if the person becomes licensed in the state of Indiana. Officials will be expected to continue the self-disclose process each year.
Conviction Status
A. A person applying to be newly licensed or applying for renewal will not be approved if that person has been:
1. Convicted or adjudicated with a finding of fault, guilt or violation, in regard to an offense involving a minor or any sexual offense; unless/until such offense has been reversed by proper authority having jurisdiction over the matter; or
2. Convicted or adjudicated with a finding of fault guilt or violation, in regard to an offense involving any illegal/illicit drug or controlled substance as prescribed by Federal or State law or regulation, prior to ten (10) years following the completion of any sentence/parole/probation period imposed for the offense; or
3. Currently serving a sentence/parole/probation for any offense or adjudication of guilt imposed by any court, judge or administrative body, other than simple traffic court.
Each individual is required to self-disclose any criminal history on the license application.
B. Currently licensed officials
1. When a currently licensed official is indicted or charged with any criminal offense or charged with a violation of any statute pertaining to minors, drugs or a controlled substance, such license will automatically be suspended pending resolution of the indictment or charge. Conviction or adjudication of fault, guilt or violation under any such indictment or charge shall result in immediate and automatic forfeiture of the officiating license.
2. Currently licensed officials must inform the IHSAA of any such indictment of charge immediately upon receipt of or upon having knowledge of such indictment or charge. Failure to notify IHSAA may itself be a basis for immediate and automatic forfeiture of the officiating license.
C. Reinstatement/Reapplication for License
An official whose license has been forfeited, suspended or revoked or an applicant who is denied a license under the provisions of this statement, may petition the commissioner, in writing, for reinstatement/reapplication based on the following:
1. If suspension, revocation or forfeiture of a license is based on a conviction, adjudication or finding as a result of a felony: the official/applicant may petition for a license one year after the completion of the parole/probation period; other than conviction of illegal or illicit drugs controlled substances where a 10-year probation period is used, or immediately upon dismissal or reversal of the charge or conviction (provided the offense was not involving a minor or sexual offense).
2. If suspension, revocation, forfeiture or denial results from a misdemeanor or other non-felony charge. The official/applicant may petition for a license immediately upon the completion of the parole/probation period (provided the offense was not involving a minor or sexual offense).
3. If Suspension, revocation, forfeiture or denial of a license is based upon any conviction, adjudication or finding involving a minor or sexual offense, reinstatement/reapplication will not be permitted, unless/until such offense has been reversed by proper authority having jurisdiction over the matter.
Reporting Acts of Unsporting & Exemplary Conduct
The link to an Unsporting Conduct & Exemplary reports can be found on the IHSAA Central Hub under the Sportsmanship Tab [pic].
1. Exemplary Report - Should be used when there is a desire to recognize behavior that goes beyond the expected behavior in a positive manner on the part of a student-athlete, coach, fans, administrators, etc. This report is an online process. Once completed, the member school(s) involved and the IHSAA will receive the report via email.
2. Reporting Unsporting Conduct of Players or Coaches - In an effort to prevent the recurrence of unfortunate incidents that occur in any varsity, reserve or freshman contest, the IHSAA requires that the following report of explanation be submitted by the Licensed Official involved.
The official shall report via the link on the Central Hub:
a) Any contestant, coach, patron or administrator who is ejected from a contest and the reason.
b) Any contestant, coach, patron or administrator who displays unsporting conduct requiring the assessment of a penalty.
The School Athletic Administrator:
a) Receives the report from the official
b) Reviews the information presented
c) Verifies the information (correct name, spelling of name, etc.)
d) Submits the report to the IHSAA
Ejection of Coach: When the misconduct of a coach warrants being banished from the field or court during a game, before taking such action, THE OFFICIAL:
a. Must determine that there is a responsible school official available to direct and supervise the team for the remainder of the game. (Superintendent, Principal, Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, Girls Sports Director, or Assistant Coach).
b. May not banish the coach if no responsible school official is available, but should declare the game forfeited.
The basic criterion inherent in athletic competition and written into the contest rules in all sports is guaranteed fair play, that no player or team may gain an unfair advantage over an opponent. Unfortunately, there are a few coaches who include the berating and carping of officials in their game strategy. There are also a few coaches who become frustrated during the course of the game and must place the fault somewhere.
Officials who permit coaches to “perform” are allowing potentially unhealthy situations to develop. To wait until “the last straw” to assess a penalty that was “earned” early on in a contest is not good procedure. Ninety-eight percent of the unsportsmanlike reports filed with IHSAA indicate that when a penalty is assessed with the first infraction, the contest proceeds with no further problems.
IHSAA By-Law 8-4 reads: Any contestant or coach ejected from a contest for an unsporting act shall be suspended from the next interschool contest at that level of competition and all other interschool contests at any level in the interim, in addition to any other penalties assessed.
The reporting of unsporting conduct of a coach or student-athlete is a necessary preventive measure. The member school principal is notified when circumstances require such; serious infractions are referred to the Commissioner. Unsporting conduct reports should be made within 24 hours of the completion of the contest.
Sportsmanship – The Official’s Responsibility
One of the goals of interscholastic competition is to teach values while enriching the educational experience of the young men and women who participate. Good sportsmanship is certainly one of the important values, and as a result, promoting good sportsmanship is clearly one of our highest priorities.
The IHSAA believes the officials play a key role in teaching and promoting good sportsmanship. The following information contains a brief summary of sportsmanship expectations for officials. By following these guidelines, officials can enhance the lifelong lessons that are being taught in the interscholastic classroom. The IHSAA urges you to read them carefully and hopes that you will remember that SPORTSMANSHIP IS CONTAGIOUS – PASS IT ON!
• Accept your role in an unassuming manner. Showboating and over-officiating are not acceptable.
• Maintain confidence and poise, controlling the contest from start to finish.
• Know the rules of the contest thoroughly and abide by the established Code of Ethics.
• Publicly shake hands with coaches of both teams before the contest.
• Never exhibit emotions or argue with participants and coaches when enforcing rules.
• When attending a contest as a spectator, give the officials working the contest the same respect you expect to receive when you are working a contest.
Tips to Minimize Ejections
Use these seven ideas throughout the season to minimize conflicts with coaches and the need for ejections:
1. Take control of bench dissent early in the contest.
2. Stop the contest and discuss bench behavior with the coach in a calm manner.
3. Isolate the coach and talk away from players and fans.
4. Stay calm and try to let the coach talk in a rational manner.
5. Do not challenge or berate the coach.
6. Avoid baiting.
7. Avoid an authoritarian stance.
Officials are mandated, by way of NFHS rules in each sport, to conduct a pregame conference with team captains and the head coach. The pregame conference should include a statement about the expectation of good sportsmanship for all team personnel.
Officials Association Membership Benefits from NFHS – Indiana is a 100% STATE MEMBER
NFHS Central Hub
Membership / Benefits being a 100% state member:
The Individual Membership period is one calendar year from the date the properly completed application and appropriate fees are received by the NFHS. One annual dues payment covers all sports.
NOTE: Some states provide automatic membership in the NFHS Officials Association as part of the state’s licensing process. Check with your state high school association to determine if this benefit already exists.
Exclusive Online Educational Content
Access to NFHS centralized officiating educational content (NFHS Central Hub) exclusively for high school officials.
Features include:
• Searchable NFHS Rules/Case Database
• Other NFHS Publications – PDFs or 3-D Manuals
• Video and Animation of NFHS Rules and Mechanics
• Officials Forum – Secured Discussion Area for Officials Regarding Rules, Mechanics and Other Officiating Topics.
• Feature Articles on Officiating (archived past issues of Officials’ Quarterly and integrated feature and sport-specific articles on the NFHS Central Hub)
• General NFHS Rules and Mechanics Educational Content
Awards Program
First-class national awards and recognition program acknowledging officials at the state, sectional and national levels. Nominations are submitted to the NFHS by the official’s state high school association.
NFHS Committees
Representation on NFHS sport rules committees and standing committees. Nominations are submitted to the NFHS by the official’s state high school association.
National Federation of High School Associations
Officials Insurance Coverage
National Federation of High School Associations Officials Coverage Summary
General Liability Insurance
Carrier: Everest National Insurance Company Aggregate Limit: $5,000,000
Products-Completed Operations Aggregate Limit: $5,000,000 Each Occurrence Limit: $2,000,000
Personal and Advertising Injury Limit: $2,000,000 Damage to Premises Rented to You: $300,000 Premises Medical Payments: $5,000
Sexual Abuse & Molestation – Each Occurrence: $1,000,000 Sexual Abuse & Molestation – Aggregate: $2,000,000 Participant Legal Liability: $2,000,000
Crisis Response – Each Event/Aggregate: $25,000
Accident Insurance
Carrier: Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company
Accident Medical Expense Benefit Maximum Benefit: $50,000 Deductible: $250
Heart & Circulatory Maximum Benefit: $2,500 Malfunction Benefit: 10%
Physical Therapy/Chiropractic – per Visit: $50
Physical Therapy/Chiropractic – Maximum per Injury: $2,000 Durable Medical Equipment – Maximum per Injury: $1,000 Outpatient Prescriptions – Maximums per Injury: $1,000
Dental Maximum Limit: Included In Medical Max
Accidental Death & Dismemberment Benefit: $2,500
Covered Activities
Insured persons are covered during:
• Officiating duties during a regularly scheduled sports or activity competition
• Sport or activity must be recognized in that state by the member state high school association
• Officiating duties including chain crews and attending officiating camps, clinics and meetings
• Coverage is extended to youth, recreational and college officiating, however, the sport must be recognized by the state high school association
• Premises owned, leased or borrowed by the policyholder
• Direct travel to and from a covered activity
Claim, Certificate of Insurance and Detailed Coverage Information Contact:
Dissinger Reed
8700 Indian Creek Parkway, Suite 320
Overland Park, KS 66210
Phone: 800-386-9183 or 913-491-6385
Fax: 913-491-0527
email: info@
nfhs
Official’s Checklist
Below are some points to keep in mind when officiating sports at any level. All officials must have a good working knowledge of the rules and mechanics. In addition to this, very successful officials have an understanding of the human relations aspect of their jobs.
BE COMPETITIVE - The players give maximum effort, so should you. Tell yourself, “I’m not going to let this game get away from me. I am better than that.” You are hired to make the calls that control the game - Make Them!
HAVE YOUR HEAD ON RIGHT - Don’t think your striped shirt grants you immunity from having to take a little criticism. It’s part of officiating. Plan on it. Successful officials know how much to take. Ask one when you get the chance.
DON’T BE A TOUGH GUY - If a coach continues to complain, but not enough to warrant a penalty, then stay away from him/her. This is especially true during time-outs. Standing near an unhappy coach, just to “show him”, will only lead to further tensions. Some officials develop irritating characteristics. Don’t be one of them.
GET INTO THE FLOW OF THE GAME - Each game is different. Good officials can feel this difference. Concentrate on the reactions of the players. Take note of the tempo of the game changes. A ragged game calls for a different style of officiating than a smooth one.
DON’T BARK - If you don’t like to be shouted at, don’t shout at someone else. Be firm but with a normal relaxed voice. This technique will do wonders in helping you to reduce the pressure. Shouting indicates a loss of control - not only of one’s self, but also of the game.
SHOW CONFIDENCE - Cockiness has absolutely no place in officiating. You want to exude confidence. Your presence should command respect from the participants. As in any walk of life, appearance, manner and voice determine how you are accepted. Try to present the proper image.
FORGET THE FANS - As a group, fans usually exhibit three characteristics: ignorance of the rules, highly emotional partisanship and delight in antagonizing the officials. Accepting this fact will help you ignore the fans, unless they interrupt the game or stand in the way of you doing your job.
ANSWER REASONABLE QUESTIONS - Treat coaches and players in a courteous way. If they ask you a question reasonably, answer them in a polite way. If they get your ear by saying, “Hey Ref, I want to ask you something, and then start telling you off interrupt and remind them of the reason for the discussion. Be firm, but relaxed.
CHOOSE YOUR WORDS WISELY - Don’t obviously threaten a coach or player. This will only put them on the defensive. More importantly, you will have placed yourself on the spot. If you feel a situation is serious enough to warrant a threat, then it is serious enough to penalize, without invoking a threat. Obviously some things you say will be a form of threat, but using the proper words can make it subtle.
STAY COOL - Your purpose is to establish a calm environment for the game, Nervous or edgy officials are easily spotted by fans, coaches and players alike. Avidly chewing gum, pacing around, or displaying a wide range of emotions prior to or during a game will serve to make you seem vulnerable to the pressure.
Officials Associations & Helpful Information
For a complete listing of current officials’ associations, leadership and chairpersons, visit:
Indiana High School Officials’ Leadership Associations (IHSOLA)
The IHSAA Executive Committee at its February 1986 meeting approved the formation of the organization IHSOLA–Association of Secretaries of Officials Associations. In 2013 the name was changed to reflect the composition of the association.
The purpose of IHSOLA is to aid the development of local associations under the leadership of the IHSAA, to identify problem areas and offer positive solutions, to upgrade the programs of the local associations in all sports, and to enhance communication between the IHSAA, the local associations and the member schools. The group is to serve in an advisory capacity.
The IHSOLA meets four times a year. The following is a list of their responsibilities:
• Assist in the planning of practical clinics for officials;
• Represent Indiana at National Conferences of NFOA;
• Assist in the selection of the Outstanding Officials Award Recipients;
• Improve lines of communication between athletic administrators and officials;
• Work to improve communication between coaches and officials;
• Recommend by-law changes that would benefit the officiating community;
• Assist in the planning of the annual officials’ summit;
• Recommend improvements to the quality of local associations;
• Recommend changes and/or additions to the current officials’ rating system
2017-2018 IHSOLA Officers
Chairperson: Mark Maxwell, Western
Vice-Chairperson: Andy Simpson, Lake County
Secretary: Brian Wiser, Indiana
IHSAA Staff Liaison: Sandra Walter, Asst. Commissioner
Committee Structure: All 24 associations are assigned to a committee on a two-year rotation.
Link to IHSOLA (Indiana High School Officials’ Leadership Association):
I. Awards / Recognition / Media / Public Relations
Responsibilities include:
A. Recommend best practices for awards and recognition programs for the Association.
B. Assist in recommending outstanding officials for each sport.
C. Prepare and disseminate press releases regarding the official of the year recipients.
D. Bring to the attention of the IHSOLA any statements or articles pertaining to officiating. These include positive, negative or public service announcements.
E. Work with each association to publicize special events such as community service projects, scholarship rewarded, etc.
II. Internal: Testing / Licensing / Recruiting / Mentoring / Training
Responsibilities include:
A. Working in conjunction with the IHSAA in the licensing procedures of officials.
B. Work with the IHSAA with regard to recruitment opportunities for each association in their area of the state.
C. Reviewing the evaluation process of officials in the tournament series.
D. Work with the IHSAA to develop a mentoring program
E. Establish training and professional development programs for all sports.
III. By-Laws / Rating System / Observers / Technology
Responsibilities include:
A. Review By-Laws annually, recommend changes and obtain approval.
B. Work with the IHSAA in constant review of the structure and progress of the IHSLOA in order to benefit our state officials.
C. Work with the IHSAA to advance the capabilities of all associations regarding the expanded use of technology and benefits of Arbiter throughout their membership.
D. Explore enhanced use of technology and recommend incorporation into IHSAA practices and procedures.
IHSAA Officials Associations
The 24 area associations were formed primarily for the purpose of improving officiating knowledge and skill. Each of the associations, in its regularly scheduled meetings, studies rules, mechanics of officiating and has organized group discussions. Another important function is to serve as a connecting link between member schools and officials. The associations take on the responsibilities for official recruiting, training and retaining. Training officials is the most important function of the officials’ associations.
The IHSAA encourages and supports the officials’ associations and commends them for the important contributions they make in promoting wholesome athletics throughout our state. Strong officials’ associations with meaningful programs are excellent avenues for developing quality officials. We urge all IHSAA officials to join an association. Working within such an organization can enhance the quality of officiating from each official and serve to professionalize all officials. The advantages are many.
Guidelines for Forming a Local Officials Association
1. Request must be in writing to IHSAA.
2. Location - must be in an area not currently serviced by an already established association and/or must not impact negatively on an existing association.
3. Purpose - must include a dedication to high professional standards, developed through active study and participation with persons of similar interests.
4. Program - must be a multi-sports program, with a minimum of five IHSAA-sanctioned sports.
5. Membership - a minimum of 20 licensed officials to found the association.
6. Goals - must list as one of its goals the active recruitment of officials in all sports.
7. Must be approved by
a. IHSOLA (Representative must meet with IHSOLA to establish need for a new association.)
b. IHSAA Executive Committee - staff liaison will present request to Executive Committee.
8. Upon receiving approval (Probationary Status) of IHSOLA, must submit the following within one year:
a. Constitution and By-Laws
b. Current Membership Roster
c. Officers of Association
d. Future Meeting Dates
e. History of the beginning of the local association
9. Upon acceptance, must meet the requirements for maintaining membership in the IHSAA Family of Officials.
a. Must have on file all items listed in #8 a-e.
b. Cooperative efforts with IHSAA.
(1) Conduct minimum number of scheduled meetings as prescribed in IHSAA Attendance for Associations
(2) Host selected IHSAA Rules Interpretation Meetings
(3) Forward meeting attendance records of members by sports on a regular basis to IHSAA
(4) Secretary to serve as liaison to IHSAA (IHSOLA Board)
(5) Supervise and administer locally IHSAA rules examinations for new applicants for licensing
(6) Conduct an active and ongoing program for the recruitment of new officials
(7) Assist in the planning and implementation of area IHSAA practical clinics for officials
(8) Submit nominations of outstanding officials for recognition
Attendance at Local Association Meetings
The IHSAA believes that dedication to high professional standards, developed through active study and participation with persons of similar interests, is a necessary ingredient for developing and maintaining competent officials. Officials must aid the local association in developing programs in their sport interest area. Indiana officials are strongly urged to join local officials’ associations. These organizations have proven without a doubt that they are of significant value to the individuals as well as to the overall officiating program. Working with a local association can enhance the quality of each official and serve to professionalize all officials.
Association Attendance & Member in Good Standing (15% of Officials Rating)
|1. Team Sports Officials | |2. Individual Sports Officials |
|Meetings Attended |Points | |Meetings Attended |Points |
|8 |5 | |5 |5 |
|7 |4 | |4 |4 |
|6 |3 | |3 |3 |
|5 |2 | |2 |2 |
|4 |1 | |1 |1 |
|Less than 4 |0 | |Less than 1 |0 |
• A maximum of two (2) meetings will be offered on-line for each team sport.
• A maximum of one (1) meeting will be offered on-line for individual sports.
Professional Development Opportunities
1. Meetings will be credited on the official’s rating form as outlined on the form (verified by each Association’s Officers)
2. Officials attending meeting(s) of association(s) in which they are not members can receive credit by alerting the host of the meeting of your “primary” association. Email verification will be necessary.
3. An IHSAA Official’s Certification Clinic may be substituted for one Association Meeting. IHSAA Rules Interpretation Meetings are mandatory for all officials and may not be substituted for an association meeting.
Officiating Mechanics
Another extremely important dimension to officiating any sport is mechanics. One dimension of mechanics can be translated to “being in the right place at the right time.” There are countless situations in officiating that make it difficult or impossible for you to make the correct call if you are out of position. Whether you are working alone or with other officials, there are proven mechanisms that get you and your partner/s into the best position to cover all dimensions of the contest. Any conscientious official will not only read and study the Officials Manual which deals to a large degree with mechanics, but also observe experienced officials and ask questions regarding how best to cover various game situations. One of the worst things that can be said of you would be that you were “out of position to make the call because you didn’t hustle.”
Another dimension of mechanics is knowing where the other official/s is and what he or she is covering. Faulty mechanics or not knowing where your partner is and what he/she is covering will eventually lead to more than one official covering the same thing and, as a result, some other area not being covered.
Post-Game Procedures
Once the contest is over, it is businesslike for the officials to leave the court/field/mat/pool together. Make no statements and offer no comments concerning the game to representatives of the press or radio. Officials should take no part in responding to radio talk-shows that require giving opinions on the play of schools.
Your dressing room is intended to be for your private use. Who is allowed in that room is entirely up to you. It is our suggestion that you allow no one into the dressing room other than the host school administration, i.e., principal or athletic director. If, after you have showered and people have had an opportunity to calm down, you wish to talk to either coach, this would be acceptable. Your conversation, however, should be with one at a time and in the dressing room, not in the hall. If at any time the situation seems to be getting more emotional than is good for the sport, you should terminate the conversation and leave. It must be emphasized here that parents, fans, news media, scorers, timers or athletes should, at no time, be involved in conversation with you.
Your trip home may be a long one. If you stop, be certain you don’t stop where you will be identified and possibly approached by someone who was at the game.
If you do not evaluate your performance personally as well as with your partner/s, you are not completing your task. A very objective analysis of what you did right as well as what you may have done wrong is very necessary if you are going to improve for the next contest. Constructive criticism between officials should be encouraged and welcomed. No one should be offended by a partner that is trying to help him/her improve.
Avoiding Problems
The single most effective way to avoid problems is to know the rules. As was indicated in the section on preparing to perform your duties, if you have not studied all of the printed materials mailed to you as well as any other efforts to improve upon your knowledge, mechanics, etc., you have not done everything possible to avoid problems.
Here are a number of additional ways to eliminate potential problems:
1. Never degrade another official. They, just like you, will receive enough criticism without getting it from their colleagues. This includes officials you may see as a spectator. Don’t offer or give, if requested, anything but positive criticism. You may very well be considered an expert, especially by someone trying to find fault with the officials.
2. Establish a firm but polite relationship with coaches. Trying to be overly friendly will get you in just as much trouble as being too gruff.
3. Be on time! The official who arrives late, or even at the very last minute, is probably not mentally prepared, and has, in addition, no doubt raised questions in the minds of the coaches about his or her sincerity and dedication. Be certain you have enough time to talk to your timers, scorer, chain crew, etc.
4. Either by yourself, or with your partner/s (if you are working with other officials), prepare yourself psychologically. You must “get up” for the contest. Review basic rules, mechanics and procedures.
5. Do not talk to the fans. This only encourages them to talk to you, and you may very well wish you had not encouraged them. Try not to have “rabbit ears”! Even if you do hear comments made by fans, you must learn to ignore them and not let them influence you.
6. Inspect the field, court, mat or whatever the facility is that is being used. If you can detect problems with the facilities before the contest begins, you can make adjustments and notify coaches and players of them.
7. Review procedures with your captains. Be certain to ask them if they have any questions.
8. Support the decisions made by your fellow officials. To disagree with him or her, or overrule the decision made, can only indicate to the athletes, coaches and fans, that one of you made a mistake. If, however, an error is made by you or your partner in rule application, you should admit it and make the necessary correction. The only thing worse than making a mistake is not correcting that mistake when possible.
9. Maintain your poise or emotional control. You may be the only one around who is remaining “cool”. If you get emotional, the situation can only get worse.
10. Be clear and concise with your signals. If players, fans and coaches don’t understand what is going on and why the penalty was called or what the penalty was, you raise doubts in their minds as to whether or not you were right.
11. Use common sense. Any number of situations occurs during a contest where the officials must use common sense. Under certain circumstances, you may be asking for more trouble than it is worth to enforce a very technical and almost insignificant rule.
Athletic Injury Guidelines
These guidelines are for your protection and the protection of the athlete:
Coaches and medical personnel must be aware that some sports rules will require officials to remove an injured player and/or charge the team with a time-out.
Coaches and medical personnel should be allowed to enter the field/court and should be given unlimited time to evaluate an injury and give emergency care. Officials should not request that coaches move an injured athlete.
The officials’ only role in dealing with athletic injuries is to stop play as soon as possible. Officials should not encourage an injured athlete to move nor should they offer medical advice or act in any way dictating injury management.
IHSAA Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion
“Any athlete suspected of having a concussion should be evaluated by an appropriate health care professional that day. Any athlete with a concussion should be medically cleared by an appropriate healthcare professional prior to resuming participation in any practice or competition.”
The language above appears in all National Federation sports rule books as part of the suggested guidelines for the management of concussion. It reflects a heightened emphasis on the safety of athletes suspected of having a concussion, especially since the vast majority of concussions do not involve a loss of consciousness. The State of Indiana has a law (Ind. Code 20-34-7) which mandates a protocol to be observed in the event there is an athletic head injury or concussion sustained by a high school student in a high school practice or contest. The following guidelines provide the IHSAA’s suggested procedures to be followed when there may be a head injury or may be a concussion in a practice or in a contest in an IHSAA recognized sport.
1. A high school student athlete who may have sustained a concussion or a head injury in a high school practice or a high school contest in an IHSAA recognized sport should immediately have the existence of a concussion or a head injury confirmed by the school’s medical person, who (i) is an individual who has training in the evaluation and management of concussions and head injuries and who is either an Indiana athletic trainer ATC/L or an Indiana medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) holding an unlimited license to practice medicine in the state of Indiana, and (ii) has been assigned to a contest to provide medical services or has been assigned to provide medical services to students at a school’s athletic practice. If it is confirmed by the school’s medical person that the student athlete has not sustained a concussion or a head injury, the student athlete may continue participation in the contest or practice.
2. A high school student athlete, suspected of having sustained a concussion or a head injury in a high school practice or contest in an IHSAA recognized sport, and who is unable to have the absence of the concussion or head injury confirmed, should:
a. be removed from practice and play at the time of the concussion or head injury is sustained,
b. be evaluated immediately by an appropriate health care professional, who (i) is an Indiana medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) who holds an unlimited license to practice medicine in the state of Indiana, and (ii) has training in the evaluation and management of concussions and head injuries,
c. follow a step-wise protocol which has provisions for the delay of the return to practice or play based upon the return of any signs or symptoms of concussion or head injury, and
d. not return to a practice or play (i) until the high school student athlete is cleared in writing to return to practice and play by the health care professional who conducted an evaluation of the student athlete, or (ii) any sooner than twenty-four (24) hours after the student athlete was removed from practice or play.
3. An official has a role in recognizing concussive signs and in making a report during a contest in an IHSAA recognized sport, and that role includes:
a. if, during a contest, and an official observes a player who exhibits concussive signs (including appearing dazed, stunned, confused, disoriented, to have memory loss, or the athlete is either unconscious or apparently unconscious), the official should immediately notify a coach that a player showed concussive signs and advise that the player should be seen by the school’s medical person or by an appropriate health care professional, and
b. if an official observes a player who exhibits concussive signs during a contest, and regardless of whether the student athlete returns to play or not, following the contest, an official’s report shall be filed with the school of the player who exhibited concussive signs, including the athletic director, by the official that initially observed the student who exhibited concussive signs; this report may be found on the IHSAA website at .
4. In cases where an assigned IHSAA Tournament Series physician (MD/DO) is present, his or her decision regarding any potential concussion or head injury, or to forbid an athlete to return to competition, is final, binding and may not be overruled.
Communicable Disease Procedures
While risk of one athlete infecting another with HIV/AIDS during competition is close to nonexistent, there is a remote risk that other blood borne infectious diseases can be transmitted. For example, Hepatitis B can be present in blood as well as in other body fluids. Precautions for reducing the potential for transmission of these infectious agents should include, but not be limited to, the following:
1. The bleeding must be stopped, the open wound covered and if there is an excessive amount of blood on the uniform, it must be changed before the athlete may participate.
2. Routine use of gloves or other precautions to prevent skin and mucous-membrane exposure when contact with blood or other body fluids is anticipated.
3. Immediately wash hands and other skin surfaces if contaminated (in contact) with blood or other body fluids. Wash hands immediately after removing gloves.
4. Clean all contaminated surfaces and equipment with an appropriate disinfectant before competition resumes.
5. Practice proper disposal procedures to prevent injuries caused by needles, scalpels and other sharp instruments or devices.
6. Although saliva has not been implicated in HIV transmission, to minimize the need for emergency mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, mouthpieces, resuscitation bags or other ventilation devices should be available for use.
7. Athletic trainers/coaches with bleeding or oozing skin conditions should refrain from all direct athletic care until the condition is resolved.
8. Contaminated towels should be properly disposed of/disinfected.
9. Follow acceptable guidelines in the immediate control of bleeding and when handling bloody dressings, mouth-guards and other articles containing body fluids.
It shall be the responsibility of the contests officials to insure that the school personnel follow these precautions in clean-up of the contest floor and the injured individual prior to resuming play.
IHSAA Suggested Guidelines on Handling Contests and Practices During
Lightning or Thunder Disturbances
In the presence of lightning, thunder and other forms of severe weather, it is imperative that member schools have a plan to make decisions regarding the suspension and resumption of contests and practices. Those responsible for making these decisions must have clearly defined lines of communication to officials, coaches, competitors and spectators. Proactive planning, with repeated review of responsibilities, makes for a successful execution of procedures when they are needed.
The IHSAA recommends the following proactive planning steps be followed by member schools:
1. Assign responsible staff members to monitor local weather conditions before and during all practices and all contests.
2. Develop an evacuation plan, including identification of appropriate nearby safe areas.
3. Develop criteria for suspension and resumption of practices and contests during the presence of lightning, thunder and other forms of severe weather, which might include the following:
a. Suspension of play criteria: when thunder is heard or lightning in any form (cloud-to-ground, cloud-to-cloud, etc.) is seen, which means that the thunderstorm is close enough to strike your location with lightning, the suspension of play at contests and at practices is warranted and the execution of your school’s emergency/severe weather action plan, including the taking of shelter immediately, is recommended.
b. Return to play criteria (thirty-minute rule): once play in a contest or practice has been suspended, resumption of play, if warranted, should not occur until at least thirty (30) minutes has passed since the last thunder was heard or the last flash of lightning was witnessed. Note that any thunder heard or lightning seen after the beginning of the 30-minute count resets the clock and another thirty (30) minute count begins.
4. Review annually with all administrators, coaches and game personnel these guidelines and all associated criteria, plans and policies.
5. Inform student athletes of these guidelines and all associated criteria, plans and policies at start of season.
For more detailed information, refer to the "Guidelines for Lightning Safety" section contained in the NFHS Sports Medicine Handbook.
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